Cheap Flights to Allahabad

Allahabad is a pilgrimage city at the confluence of the Rivers Yamuna, Ganges and the fabled Saraswati, and holds great importance as both a religious centre and in state history. Visitors flying to this town will gain an insight into Hindu mythology, and get a feel for this laid back northern city.

Allahabad Airport (IXD)

Allahabad Airport is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, in India. Located only 12km from the city centre of Allahabad. Also known as the Bamrauli Airport, IXD was a military airport up until 2013, when it was opened to commercial airlines. Currently, there are very few facilities available for passengers, so ensure you are prepared with cash or food whilst you are in transit. Though you will find the city of Allahabad will have everything you need regarding your banking, currency exchange and postal needs.

Airlines to Allahabad

There are no direct international flights into Allahabad. Passengers wanting to fly to this city will likely have to change in one of the international airport hubs in India, such as Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Kolkata (CCU) and Chennai (MAA).

The airline carrier that operates flights into this airport is Air India Regional.

Getting into Allahabad

By taxi

Getting a taxi is the easiest way to get into the city centre, though you will, for the most part have to negotiate the rate into town. Typically, you shouldn’t have to pay more than 800-1000R ($17-21). Once in the city, you can grab auto-rickshaws to take you around town, these are cheap and cheerful, though again, you will have to negotiate each rate.

By public transport

Allahabad airport buses run from the IXD into other surrounding cities, such as Lucknow, and you can find various different models to ensure your comfort on the way into town. Public transport in India is very reasonable, but because these are fairly long haul journeys (around 5 hours), the typical fare is around 500R (around $10).

By car

Renting a car is generally done through your hotel, or through a travel agent. These are all chauffeur driven and very convenient, as it is inadvisable to self-drive in India.

What can you do in Allahabad?

This fascinating city is littered with religious and architectural sites that travellers interested in north Indian culture will love exploring.

Head to Sangam, the point where the confluence of three major rivers meet, the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Each year, there is a festival held in the beginning months of the year, called the Magh Mela. And once every 12 years, there is Kumbh Mela, a festival famous in India and attracting millions of pilgrims. Wander along the Saraswati and Nehru Ghats, or take a boat out into the Sangam for 600-800R ($13-17).

See Akbar’s Fort, a 16th century stronghold built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Visitors can wander around the Patalpuri Temple, and see the idols that represent the Gods and demi Gods that watch over this shrine. Outside there is the Undying Banyan Tree, where legend has it that the faithful would climb and then fall to their death to be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation.

Lastly, exploring the Allahabad Museum, will allow curious travellers to look into the history and culture of the city itself. And when you’re done touring, don’t forget to try the popular street food, like pakora, samosa and chaat. Or order the tunda and kakori kebabs, local favourites from nearby Lucknow.

When should you go?

There are quite a few extremes in this subtropical city. In the hot season (March-June) temperatures can soar to 45°C, in the wet season (July-September) the weather cools, but the rain can be torrential and it is inadvisable to travel here during this time of year. Winter (December-February) is typically considered to be the best time to visit, though be warned, pack warmly as the mercury can sink as low as 10°C.

What do you need to know?

Currency: Rupee (INR)

Visa: All visitors to India will need to possess a valid visa upon entry. You can find your country requirements on the official government website. Apply well in advance of your flight to ensure that your visa is issued in time for your trip.